Ferrari’s Special Projects program allows the brand’s most dedicated customers to commission a custom-made vehicle, and their latest creation, the SP-8, was recently unveiled. This special car made its debut at Ferrari’s Finali Mondiali event, which celebrates the end of the motorsport season and is currently taking place at the Mugello Circuit in Italy. The event also served as the stage for the introduction of the 296 Challenge race car.
The SP-8 is based on the Ferrari F8 Spider, which first hit the market in 2019. However, the SP-8 adds its own unique styling elements, drawing inspiration from the limited-edition V-12-powered Daytona SP3 that Ferrari released last year, with only 599 units ever produced. Although the SP-8 retains the basic layout, chassis, and powertrain of the F8 Spider, everything else has been customized for this exclusive vehicle. One notable change is the absence of the retractable hard-top roof, transforming the SP-8 into a true roadster. In its place, a deck has been added, featuring a pair of intakes. Ferrari conducted extensive wind tunnel and track testing to ensure optimal comfort and performance at high speeds.
The SP-8 also boasts a few intriguing design elements that are not commonly found on a Ferrari. For instance, it features square-shaped exhaust tips, a cast aluminum grille created through 3D printing, and a two-tone effect that combines a unique silver finish called Argento Micalizzato at the rear, with exposed carbon fiber at the front. The wheels are a bespoke design, inspired by classic wheel patterns seen on Ferrari sports prototype race cars and the iconic F40. They include center locks, typically found on race cars and Ferrari’s more extreme models.
Inside the SP-8, blue Alcantara is used for the trim, and the car features a manual gate-style shifter for the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, similar to the one introduced by Ferrari in 2019 on the SF90 Stradale.
The powertrain remains unchanged in the SP-8, as is the case with all of Ferrari’s Special Projects cars. Therefore, it is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V-8 engine, mounted in the middle, capable of delivering a peak power of 710 horsepower. These specifications enable the F8 Spider to accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 211 mph. It is safe to assume that the SP-8 will deliver similar impressive performance figures.
After its debut at the Finali Mondiali event, the SP-8 will be on display at Ferrari’s museum in Maranello, Italy, until March 2024. Following its time at the museum, it is expected to be delivered to its owner, who is a resident of China.
The Special Projects program is designed to create one-of-a-kind cars for Ferrari’s most loyal customers. In addition to these unique vehicles, the program also produces low-volume offerings like the Daytona SP3 mentioned earlier. To be invited to participate in the program, customers must already own a collection of Ferraris. The process of creating a one-off car typically takes around two years, during which the customer is actively involved in the design and development process. However, it is important to note that these exclusive vehicles come with a hefty price tag, costing several million dollars.
Overall, Ferrari’s Special Projects program exemplifies the brand’s commitment to delivering personalized and extraordinary experiences to their customers. The SP-8 showcases the fusion of performance, style, and individuality that sets Ferrari apart in the automotive world.